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How to Take Great Photos on Graduation Day

Capture the best moments of the graduates

Many high school seniors in Stamford are getting ready to receive their diplomas this week. But as a family member or friend, how do you get the best pictures of your graduate? We caught up with one local photography expert to give you the best tips to capture the best moments on graduation day.

It's cap and gown season, but how to do you get the best picture of the grads getting their diplomas?

First, Fred Bonilla says to let the pros handle the diploma shot.

"In most institutions, you'll have a photographer that's hired by the school and their main purpose is to take that one shot of your son, daughter, whoever would be, getting the diploma," said Fred Bonilla, who works at Camera Wholesalers in Stamford.

But, he says it's a good idea to get a reaction shot after they get their diploma.

"The best shot can usually be right after they receive the diploma," said Bonilla.

Next, snap some shots of the grad before the ceremony.

"If the graduate has the cap and gown already, you'll want to be able to take some shots at home, of course with the parents. Maybe a shot of the cap and gown itself. When you get to the school, you may want to have a shot of the graduate in front of the entrance of the school."

"Make it a complete experience. A lot of people think that you're just going to have to take a photograph over at the hall or the arena," said Bonilla.

Also get an extra battery for your camera. But most of all, Bonilla says to just "enjoy the day."

Bonilla has worked in the camera business for over 30 years. Part of what he does at Camera Wholesalers is teaching classes.

"I love photography with a passion," said Bonilla, "And to be able to teach people and help them is just an extension of that."